Founded in 1852, Oakland, California has history that goes back much
further than its 150 years. Native Americans lived in the region for over 5,000 years. The
Spanish visited the area in the 1770s, and came to settle about 50 years later. Asians,
African Americans, and those of Northern European extraction came with the Gold Rush, and
put down their own roots. This Web site celebrates both the history and diversity of
Oakland.